Beijing to Kunming: Undiscovered China - 14 Days

From £1,880£134 per daySave 1%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female76%
  • Male24%

Average age

40
12 Min100 Max

Start / End

  • Beijing
  • Kunming

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 16

Meals included

3

Highlights

  • Begin your adventure in Beijing, delving into the imperial grandeur of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, before ascending to the majestic Great Wall of China for breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Journey to ancient Xi'an to stand in awe before the legendary Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological wonder, then immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary delights and historic atmosphere of the bustling Muslim Quarter.
  • Experience the heartwarming charm of Chengdu with a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, witnessing these beloved creatures, followed by a taste of local life in the lively People's Park.
  • Discover the picturesque Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled against the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, before exploring the serene Black Dragon Pool.
  • Step back in time through Yunnan's authentic old towns, with a walking tour of the ancient Silk Road trading post of Shaxi, rich in Buddhist culture, and the beautifully preserved architecture of Xizhou.
  • Conclude your unforgettable journey in Kunming, the 'City of Eternal Spring,' where you can wander through the vibrant Flower Market and soak in the serene beauty of Green Lake Park, amidst stunning natural karst formations.
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What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
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Summary

China will ignite your imagination with its futuristic cities and sweep you off your feet with ancient traditions and rich cultural heritage. This two-week adventure checks off the must-sees like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors, but that’s just the start. Journey south to Kunming and discover hidden gems in smaller cities brimming with centuries of history. Wander through Chengdu’s lively People's Park and stroll the charming old towns of Shaxi and Dali. It's the perfect balance of old and new, city and countryside — China like you’ve never experienced before.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Beijing

    Arrive at any time. Attend a welcome meeting in the evening followed by an orientation walk with your CEO in the area of Beijing near the joining hotel. There will be an optional group dinner afterwards at a local restaurant.

  • Day 2

    Beijing

    Visit the vast expanses of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Use free time to explore the Hutongs (historic narrow streets and alleys) or The Temple of Heaven, the Drum and Bell Tower, Lama Temple, or Summer Palace. Explore bustling Beijing including the famous Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City.

  • Day 3

    Beijing

    Travel north to the Great Wall, one of the most iconic sights in all of China. Spend the better part of the day exploring and taking photos, soaking in the atmosphere. Head out to discover the wonders of the Great Wall of China.

  • Day 4

    Beijing/Xi’an

    In the morning catch a bullet train from Beijing to vibrant Xi'an. After settling in at your hotel go on an orientation walk with your CEO and visit points of interest around the city like the bustling Muslim Quarter. Known as one of Xi'an's most fascinating areas, you will pass the lovely and unusual Great Mosque and wander by food stalls with some of the best street eats in China.

  • Day 5

    Xi’an

    Visit one of China’s greatest archaeological treasures—the Terracotta Warriors. This evening, opt for a dumpling banquet with your CEO and group.

  • Day 6

    Xi’an/Chengdu

    Spend a free morning in Xi'An then board a bullet train in the afternoon to Chengdu. After getting settled at the hotel, join an orientation walk around the city. In the evening sit down for a Hotpot dinner with the group. Hotpot is a very local way to have a meal. We sit around a table with a pot built in the middle – the pot is divided into 2 halves (spicy vs. non-spicy usually). The restaurants flavoured soup is added and brought to a boil, then we can start adding our food in the pot to cook ( including vegetable, meat or fish). The table also offers various sorts of herbs, spices, oil etc so you can make your own soup to taste.

  • Day 7

    Chengdu

    Enjoy a morning visit to see pandas at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. Witness the conservation efforts being made to save this endearing species. Afterwards, take time for lunch on your own before your CEO will take the group to People's Park by metro for an orientation walk. End the walk in Tianfu Square, located in the city centre of Chengdu. Take the metro back to the hotel before an optional group dinner in the evening.

  • Day 8

    Chengdu/Lijiang

    Spend the morning free in the bustling city of Chengdu. Opt to visit the Wenshu Monastery or Kuanzhai Alley. Take an afternoon flight from Chengdu to Lijiang.

  • Day 9

    Lijiang

    After a morning orientation walk of Lijiang, visit the the Black dragon Pool and the spectacular views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain above the marble bridge. Upon finishing the tour, opt to head to Lijiang Old town to and explore the must see spots like The Giant Water Wheel, Wangu Tower and Lion Hill. Then enjoy a free evening. Opt to visit the Mufu Museum or grab dinner with your group.

  • Day 10

    Lijiang/Shaxi

    Drive to Shaxi Old Town first thing this morning and head out for a walking tour of this ancient, medieval town full of Buddhist culture. Visit the iconic spots of the town like the Old Market Square, the Old Theater, and Yujin Bridge. This afternoon, enjoy free time in this beautiful town. Opt to visit the Xingjiao Temple or the Ouyang Courtyard.

  • Day 11

    Shaxi/Dali

    We head to the next town this morning, the thousand year old village of Xizhou Old Town. Explore the well preserved architecture with a tour led by your CEO. Then after a bit of free time in Xizhou, drive to Dali. Head out for an orientation walk and to Dali Old Town. Join your group and CEO for dinner together at a local restaurant. On the way back to the hotel, admire the lanterns that light up this beautiful town at night.

  • Day 12

    Dali

    This beautiful lakeside town is yours to do as you wish today! Opt to explore the Old Town, cycle around Dali town or Lake Erhai. Maybe visit the National Geological park of Cangshan Mountain on a hike or on the cable car. A local favorite is the Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple or you could learn the art of traditional Tie-Dying by the local Bai people. With so many options, the choice is yours!

  • Day 13

    Dali/Kunming

    Together we'll catch a morning train to Kunming, known as one of China's best natural phenomenons with all its waterfalls, lakes and karst formations. After an orientation walk of the town, opt to head to lunch to try the famous local rice noodle dish. This afternoon, visit the jaw dropping Kunming Flower Market. Then head to the Green Lake (Cuihu) Park where not only will you see your first glimpse of this karst mountain, lake filled town, but you'll also witness locals dancing, singing and playing instruments during their leisure time.

  • Day 14

    Kunming

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotel (13 nts)

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 0, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 2

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Aug 2026

    from £1,949
  • Oct 2026

    from £2,108
  • Jan 2027

    from £1,880
  • Feb 2027

    from £1,880
  • Mar 2027

    from £1,999
  • Apr 2027

    from £2,108
  • May 2027

    from £2,108
  • Jun 2027

    from £1,999
  • Jul 2027

    from £1,999
  • Aug 2027

    from £1,999
  • Sep 2027

    from £2,108
  • Oct 2027

    from £2,108
  • Nov 2027

    from £1,880
  • Dec 2027

    from £1,880
  • Jan 2028

    from £1,880
  • Feb 2028

    from £1,880
  • Mar 2028

    from £1,880
  • Apr 2028

    from £1,880
  • May 2028

    from £1,880
  • Jun 2028

    from £1,880
  • Jul 2028

    from £1,880
  • Aug 2028

    from £1,880
  • Sep 2028

    from £1,880
  • Oct 2028

    from £1,880
  • Nov 2028

    from £1,880
  • Dec 2028

    from £1,880
  • Save 1%
    Monday 8 May 2028to Sunday 21 May 2028
    6+ spaces of 16 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £1,899£1,880
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Solo Room from +£563
  • Save 1%
    Saturday 13 May 2028to Friday 26 May 2028
    6+ spaces of 16 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £1,899£1,880
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Solo Room from +£563
  • Save 1%
    Saturday 27 May 2028to Friday 9 Jun 2028
    6+ spaces of 16 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £1,899£1,880
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Solo Room from +£563

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What are the main highlights of this trip?

    The main highlights include visiting the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, an excursion to the Great Wall of China, a guided tour of the Terracotta Warriors, a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Center, exploring People's Park & Tianfu Square in Chengdu, visiting Lijiang Old Town and Black Dragon Pool Park, a Shaxi Walking Tour, and a Dali Old Town walking tour.
  • What is the travel style for this tour?

    The travel style is 'Classic'.
  • What is the physical rating of this tour?

    The physical rating for this tour is 3.
  • Will there be a guide leading the group?

    Yes, all group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides information, suggestions for activities and local eateries, and introduces you to local friends. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge.
  • What is the typical group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 14.
  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

    Accommodation for 13 nights will be in twin-share hotels. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.
  • Are meals included in the tour price?

    Yes, 1 lunch and 2 dinners are included in this trip.
  • What forms of transportation are used on this trip?

    The modes of transportation include train, private vehicle, walking, plane, public bus, and metro.
  • Are international flights included in the trip price?

    No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, but check with your booking agent for any exceptions on combo tours.
  • What should I know about internet access in China?

    While traveling through mainland China, you will not be able to access some popular internet websites like Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WordPress, and Whatsapp. It may be possible to access some of these websites using a VPN, which you are advised to research and install prior to travel.
  • What should I know about currency and payment methods in China?

    The currency is CNY (Chinese Yuan). While WeChat Pay and Alipay are common, carrying some cash is strongly recommended as credit cards or mobile apps may not always work, especially outside first-tier cities. It's suggested to set up WeChat Pay or Alipay and link a credit/debit card before arriving.
  • Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

    You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
  • What are the visa and entry requirements for China?

    All countries require a valid passport with a minimum 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality, and it is the traveler's responsibility to check with their local embassy or consulate. An official Letter of Invitation (LOI) may be required for a Chinese visa, which can be obtained through the tour operator's visa support agent in China after booking. You must have at least two blank passport pages.
  • What are the rules regarding power banks on domestic flights in China?

    As of June 28, 2025, power banks without the official China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark will be confiscated on domestic flights within China.
  • What are some optional activities available on this trip?

    Optional activities include a Hutong Walk, Temple of Heaven, Lama Temple Visit, Drum and Bell Tower Visit, Summer Palace in Beijing; Toboggan or Cable Car at the Great Wall; The Great Mosque, Big Goose Pagoda Visit, Cycling Xi'an City Walls, The Tang Dynasty Cultural Show with Dumpling Banquet, Xi'an City Wall South Gate in Xi'an; Xingjiao Temple Visit or Ouyang Courtyard in Shaxi; and Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple or Erhai Lake Bike Tour in Dali. Costs vary per activity.
  • Is there an emergency contact number while on tour?

    Yes, you can contact the local tour operator (China) at Head Office: +86 18122213686 or Beijing Office: +86 010-65128789 or +86 13379009576. International toll-free and regional numbers are also available for the Sales team.
  • What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations?

    The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and the Equaldex tool for specific destination information.
  • Are there any luggage recommendations for this trip?

    Due to the use of local and sometimes crowded transport, backpacks are much more suitable than suitcases. For train travel, bags need to be stowed overhead or under beds, so traveling as light as possible is recommended.
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